The new excursions include immersive experiences like shopping with a chef at food markets in Vienna, Strasbourg and Belgrade. In the evening, the ingredients purchased will be transformed into a dish to be served in the Crystal Dining Room.
In Duisburg, Germany, passengers can tour the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Zollverein coal mine, once the largest and most productive coal mine in Europe, which has transformed into a lively location with a reputation for arts and culture. More active travelers can choose a cycling tour from Breisach, Germany, to Colmar, France.
The 'Scenic FreeChoice' excursions are included in the fare.
In addition to the new excursions, Scenic Cruises will add 'Space-Ships' Scenic Opal and Scenic Jasper. Sailing the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, both new ships offer large suites including the Royal Panorama Suites, at 474 square feet with a separate bedroom and 'Sun Lounge.' The lounge converts from outdoor balcony into an all-weather room with the push of a button.
Both ships feature a new vitality pool on the Sun Deck, which has a plunge pool on one side and a jet pool on the other.
A new 12-day 'Bordeaux River Cruise' focuses on the wineries and Gothic architecture of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bordeaux in France. With no overnight sailing, the leisurely cruise on board one of the ‘Space-Ships’ docks in Cadillac, Libourne, Blaye Pauillac and Bordeaux.
Also new for 2015 are opportunities to connect a river cruise to some of Europe’s iconic train routes. The Black Forest Steam Train provides a 40-minute nostalgic journey from Kandern to Haltigen through the scenic Kander Valley while the Great Continental Train takes in the countryside vistas between Vienna and Bratislava. On several of the French sailings, the use of the country’s TGV means high-speed, first-class connections between Paris and Amsterdam, Bordeaux or Dijon.
'Scenic Sundowners' is a new cultural experience for 2015 that immerses participants in European traditions. Passengers take part in an exclusive cocktail reception to toast the day's end at picturesque locations including Austria’s Wachau Valley and France’s Tournon Castle.
